This week, the New Lenox Fire Protection District (NLFPD) held a swearing in ceremony to officially swear in Firefighter/Paramedics (FF/PM) as district employees. The NLFPD also promoted a Lieutenant and Battalion Chief during the swearing in ceremonies.

On Wednesday, August 5th, FF/PM Eric Chmura, FF/PM Thomas Comise, FF/PM Michael Donath, FF/PM Matthew Duda and FF/PM Jereme Leahy were sworn in as a district Firefighter/Paramedics with the NLFPD.

On Thursday, August 6th, FF/PM Melissa Bresnahan, FF/PM Andrew Ledesma, and FF/PM Luke Wroblewski were sworn in as District Firefighter/Paramedics with the NLFPD. During this ceremony, FF/PM Joe Ward was promoted to Lieutenant (Lt.), and Lt. Ryan Hall was promoted to Battalion Chief, filling recent vacancies.

“These men and women have all worked extremely hard to get to where they are, and we couldn’t be prouder of them for their efforts,” stated Chief Adam Riegel. “We want to congratulate them on all they have done and thank them for helping us become stronger as a district.”

In order to make it onto the district eligibility list, firefighters must go through a series of tests over a six-month period. These include written, oral, and interactive assessments conducted by the Board of Fire Commissioners. After the first test, the number of candidates is cut to approximately half. Those not cut continue on with the next assessments. Once each person is assigned a score, they are ranked, based on those scores and their names are posted for two years on an eligibility list. Once hired, the firefighters go through a year probationary period before they are officially sworn in.

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The primary mission of the New Lenox Fire and Ambulance Protection District is to provide a range of programs designed to protect the lives and property within New Lenox Village and Township from the effects for fires and sudden medical emergencies or exposure to dangerous conditions created by man or nature with professional, compassionate, and quality service.